Janet Stuke, Good Shepherd volunteer who is coordinating the move, said organizers still are on target to open sometime in the spring.

“At this time, we still think we are on target for that,” Stuke said.

She said sheet rock work and insulation installation will be the next tasks for workers.

Roofing work is finished and some more heating and cooling tasks still needs finished, as well as inspection requirements, Stuke said.

The new location covers 9,300 square feet, an increase of about 2,300 from the existing facility, which spans two levels.

With a predominately elderly volunteer staff, Stuke said the future site being on one level would be ideal for staff and handicapped shoppers and clients.

The current store is at 302 E. Fourth St. It’s new locale is at 423 E. Fourth St., which has been an antique store and pawn shop in recent years.

Retired engineer Rick Reischman has helped to coordinate various inspections of the building to ensure its up to code.

Scott Breuer with Capital Electric has helped with electrical work, while Bob Gepner and his crew have assisted with testing for asbestos, mildew and other substances, Reischman said. Steve Chellgren, who has retrofitted warehouses, offered his expertise on the project as well. LADD also has offered services. Vic McEachron, Jim Smith, Steve Hughes, Hubert Kettler and Dale Walker are some others who have offered their abilities to the volunteer effort.

Some new walls have been constructed inside the building to separate the sale floor from the receiving and sorting area. A large doorway was built into the wall.

The former Bichelmeyer’s Steakhouse banquet room is south of the restaurant and is part of the property Good Shepherd purchased.

The new space will allow for a much larger food pantry, as well as a furniture showroom. Because of the current thrift store’s limited space, the organization hasn’t sold furniture.

“We’re excited about being able to accept furniture, which we haven’t had” Stuke said. “But we are excited about that.”

A covered area will be constructed at the northeast corner of the property on the back side of the building, while signage is planned for the front of the building.

The current building will be put up for sale after everything is moved into the new building.

As for current needs at Good Shepherd, monetary donations always are welcome. Stuke said the food pantry currently was “looking pretty good,” thanks in large part to the Mayor Jason Ward’s annual food drive challenge at Tonganoxie Elementary School.

“A big thank you to those families,” Stuke said, referring to TES students and their parents for their donations.

Stuke noted that food always is welcome, as there is a consistent turnover.

“Last Friday, in 90 minutes, six families came in for food,” Stuke said. “We do see people who are needing food because energy bills are higher. They’re very appreciative of food.”

Winter coats also can be donated this time of year to go to families in need, Stuke noted.

Good Shepherd purchased the building 11 months ago for about $72,000. The organization is putting another $25,000 into the building for plumbing work, as well as the heating and cooling system. Roof repairs carried a cost of about $30,000.

Stuke said Good Shepherd purchased the building through private donations specifically earmarked for a new building.

Anyone interested in helping Good Shepherd with the move to its new location can sign up at the store. Painting and cleaning opportunities also are available.

Interested volunteers also can call the store at 913-845-3964.

Store hours are 9 a.m.-noon Mondays through Wednesdays and Fridays. It’s also open 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays.

“We are going to need help, that is for sure,” Stuke said.